Townsend, who shot to fame as the boyfriend of Oscar-winning actress Charlize Theron in “Queen of the Damned,” had been cast in Branagh’s film as Fandral, an ally of Thor, a Norse God.

Joshua Dallas, a relatively unknown actor set to appear in George Lucas’ drama “Red Tails,” will serve as Townsend’s replacement, two sources told the AP.

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The Marvel Comics film adaptation co-stars Natalie Portman, Anthony Hopkins, Renee Russo and Tom Hiddleston. It was originally set for release on May 20,2011 but was recently moved up to May 6, 2011.

This wasn’t the first time Townsend has been replaced on a film after being cast. He was originally supposed to portray Aragorn in “The Lord of the Rings” trilogy. Viggo Mortensen eventually took up the part.